Welcome to JHU! Attending university is an exciting time for students. You've moved away from your parental home and have more freedom to make personal choices, but it also means you have a greater level of personal responsibility to keep yourself and those around you safe.
September is Campus Fire Safety Month and a great time to create or review your emergency action plans for fire safety and other emergencies.
Did you know that from 2015 to 2019, over 3,800 fires occurred in dormitories, fraternities, sororities, and other structures? These fires caused 29 injuries and over $11 million in property damage. Peak times for campus housing fires are 5 to 11 p.m. in September and October. Cooking equipment was involved in 90% of campus residential fires.
Make a plan before you are involved in a fire. What will you do when you hear an alarm?
Fire Safety Checklist
- Check for smoke detectors in sleeping areas.
- Plan on how to get out of your room.
- Practice your escape plan.
- Create a 'GO' bag with emergency supplies to get you through two to three days out of your room.
- A sounding alarm means there is a problem somewhere in the building. Leave quickly. Grab your GO bag and go!
- Keep exit paths clear so you can exit quickly.
- Clean the dryer lint trap!
- Buddy up! Friends keep friends safe. Talk about, plan, and share emergency plans with your friends.
Resources
Minger Foundation's Cooking Fire Safety
US Fire Administration
National Fire Protection Association
JHU Health Safety & Environment
